A word from NDIA's president.

• Author: Farrell, Lawrence P., Jr.

Dear NDIA Members,

I want to express sincere appreciation to the many corporate member representatives who have generously contributed time, energy and other resources to the work performed by NDIA's divisions, industrial committees, chapters and affiliate organizations. A big thanks to all of you who have participated in NDIA events as attendees, speakers, panelists and exhibitors over the past year. The secret to success for NDIA is the many volunteer hours contributed by our members as leaders, planners, event chairs and participants in our many activities--close to 200 this year.

As you all know, 2013 has been a most challenging year as conference restrictions and budget issues have forced us to cancel 14 planned events. The primary driver was non-availability of government participants. This has forced us to reevaluate strategies and venues for events going forward. We have begun to shift events closer to government entities who need to participate, and work closer with government offices to ensure strict compliance with ethical requirements for their participation. As we close out 2013 and enter 2014, you will see some changes which will make it easier for both government and industry to participate in our value-added collaboration between industry and government.

The Budget Control Act of 2011 and the subsequent imposition of sequestration have resulted in major imbalances to service budgets, with severe shortages to operating budgets, which restrict government travel budgets. One reprogramming has occurred, and perhaps more are on the way. None of this however, reduces the need for close industry-government collaboration on the best and most efficient way to provide for the needs of defense and the warfighters who...